It is not a good time for organic summer apples. Prices are low and the reason is not clear. "I don't understand those companies that sell the product in this period - said Elisa Benetti, who is spokesperson for the Italian import and export company Fairtrasa Holland BV - because nobody should be in a hurry. The apples are of good quality and a few weeks in the cell can only improve them. In northern Europe there is a lot of product coming from the southern hemisphere, but we are far from a market surplus scenario."
Elisa Benetti at a fair in 2019
The representative also explained that it is not likely to be a year of full production, as spring frosts in Poland and other Eastern countries have significantly reduced the production potential.
"For example, the Galas sold well until February, so it is pointless to sell them now, which is what is currently happening. Consumers are even more concerned about sustainability, so there will be an increase in demand for organic apples as soon as temperatures drop and schools and canteens reopen."
"One of our goals - added Elisa Benetti - is to have organic apples all year round. Thanks to new varieties that have a good shelf life, and to early varieties in Veneto that are harvested in July, we are able to cover 12 months of the year. It's a result which would allow us to be independent from imports from the southern hemisphere."
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Elisa works with highly professional companies, since the Dutch importers are very accurate and rigorous. " Being certified GlobalGAP is the minimum - she concluded - if you want to professionally sell on foreign markets. I buy Italian organic fruit, in particular apples, pears and kiwis. I start the season in July, with the first organic apples grown in the province of Verona, and then continue across different areas of Italy."